HarperCollins Publishers and LaVergne-based Ingram Content Group Inc. have announced they are working with 12 independent bookstores nationwide to pilot a P+E (print and eBook) bundling program.

The program (there are no Tennessee-based bookstores participating at this point) allows shoppers to buy a physical copy of a book and for a small additional charge receive a digital version of the same book on the BookShout platform.

"It's a pleasure to craft these types of innovative services for HarperCollins and our independent retail partners," said Mr. John Ingram, the Chairman and CEO of Ingram Content Group. "We know that all of our publishing and retail partners are looking for new solutions, and our goal is always to be on the forefront, serving and providing for them."

"This is a good first step in getting our bestselling content into reader's hands in a way that increases choices for them," said Chantal Restivo-Alessi, Chief Digital Officer at HarperCollins. "We are happy to support our independent retail partners in putting forth a digital component to their customers. The effort was tailor made for the indie buyer, from the books chosen to the in-store marketing, and we look forward to learning and expanding the program in the near future, as data and feedback become available."

The first round of books from HarperCollins includes Amanda Coplin's The Orchardist, Richard Ford's Canada, Erika Johansen's The Queen of the Tearling, Lauren Oliver's Before I Fall, Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins, and Jacqueline Winspear's The Care and Management of Lies. When a reader purchases the bundle of one of these books, they will receive a code that allows them to get their digital copy at BookShout.